On October 29, 2026, Mingachevir State University (MDU) hosted a roundtable on “Economic development and integration within the Union of Turkic States: contemporary challenges and strategic prospects” as part of the events dedicated to the 100th anniversary of the First Turkological Congress.
The main purpose of the event was to discuss, from an academic perspective, the expansion of economic cooperation among Turkic states, the strengthening of regional integration, opportunities for innovative and sustainable development, and prospects for strategic partnerships in trade, investment, energy, transport and logistics, and tourism.
Opening the roundtable, MDU Professor Veysal Ayyubov emphasized the importance of historical and cultural ties, shared values, and economic partnerships among Turkic states for regional development. He noted the importance of strengthening cooperation among the member states of the Organization of Turkic States, applying innovative approaches, and making effective use of existing economic potential amid global economic challenges. The professor also highlighted opportunities for higher education institutions to contribute to these processes through research and the exchange of knowledge and experience.
Academic presentations on the topic followed.
Arif Taghiyev, Senior Lecturer in MDU’s Department of Economics, delivered a presentation on “Prospects for economic diversification and innovative development within the Union of Turkic States,” addressing the development of the non-oil sector, digital transformation, the application of innovative technologies, and the formation of a knowledge-based economy.
Zivar Zeynalova, Associate Professor in the Department of Economics, analyzed the expansion of mutual trade relations, improvements to the investment environment, and the impact of joint economic initiatives on regional cooperation in her presentation on “Foreign trade, investment flows, and economic integration processes among Turkic states.”
Nushaba Gadimli, Lecturer in the department and PhD in Economics, delivered a presentation on “Economic cooperation within the Organization of Turkic States,” highlighting development priorities for multilateral partnerships among member states, the alignment of shared economic interests, and opportunities to strengthen institutional cooperation.
Malahat Rahimova, Associate Professor in the Department of Economics, discussed energy security, transport infrastructure development, efficient resource use, and the role of renewable energy opportunities in regional economic integration in her presentation on “Energy resources, transport and logistics corridors, and regional economic cooperation.” She emphasized the importance of infrastructure projects based on environmental responsibility for long-term economic sustainability.
Sabina Guluzade, Lecturer in the Department of Tourism Business and Marketing, delivered a presentation on “Prospects for tourism development among Turkic states and regional economic integration,” discussing the influence of shared historical and cultural heritage on the development of tourism potential. The presentation highlighted the importance of creating joint tourism routes, promoting ecological and cultural tourism, increasing the economic participation of local communities, and adopting responsible tourism approaches.
Tural Hasangarayev, Lecturer in the Department of Economics, analyzed the expansion of industrial cooperation between the two countries, the development of joint production and investment projects, and the contributions of technology and experience exchange to economic partnerships in his presentation on “Azerbaijan–Uzbekistan economic integration, industrial cooperation, and prospects for joint investment projects.”
The roundtable included an exchange of views on diversifying economic ties, advancing digital and innovative development, promoting sustainable energy and transport systems, preserving ecological balance, supporting inclusive economic growth, and creating new employment opportunities. The importance of aligning economic progress with social well-being and environmental responsibility was emphasized.
The event also addressed the historical significance of the First Turkological Congress. It was noted that the congress, held in Baku from February 26 to March 6, 1926, marked an important stage in the scholarly study of the languages, history, literature, and cultural heritage of Turkic peoples. Attended by 131 delegates from various countries and regions, the congress held 17 sessions and heard approximately 38 presentations. Discussions covered alphabet reform, orthography, terminology, teaching methodology, and the development of Turkic languages. The congress holds considerable historical significance for expanding academic ties across the Turkic world and researching shared cultural heritage.
Pursuant to the Order of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, dated October 22, 2025, the 100th anniversary of the First Turkological Congress is to be commemorated in 2026. In this connection, MDU adopted a corresponding Action Plan on March 31, 2026, to implement the Action Plan approved by the Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan on March 13, 2026.
The roundtable concluded with participants sharing their views and proposals and discussing future directions for economic integration among Turkic states and opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation.
Such academic and educational events organized at Mingachevir State University serve to expand international academic dialogue, share scholarly knowledge, promote innovative thinking, and develop regional partnerships based on the principles of economic, social, and environmental sustainability.